Peanut Butter Banana Brownies

Peanut Butter Banana Brownies are a decadent, fudgy dessert that combines the richness of chocolate with the natural sweetness of ripe bananas and the nutty goodness of peanut butter. These brownies are moist, chewy, and full of flavor, offering a unique twist on the classic brownie.

The combination of bananas and peanut butter not only adds incredible taste but also keeps the brownies soft and tender. Perfect for a cozy treat, an after-school snack, or a sweet indulgence with coffee or milk, these brownies are irresistible.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it perfectly balances indulgence and comfort. The bananas provide natural sweetness and moisture, making the brownies wonderfully soft, while the peanut butter adds a creamy, nutty depth that pairs beautifully with the chocolate.

Each bite is rich, fudgy, and packed with flavor, and it’s hard to stop at just one. It’s also a great way to use overripe bananas and elevate a simple dessert into something special.

Why This Dish is a Must-Try

Peanut Butter Banana Brownies are a must-try because they offer a unique twist on a classic dessert. They combine familiar flavors in a way that’s comforting yet exciting, with the gooey texture of chocolate and peanut butter perfectly complementing the sweet banana.

They’re easy to make, versatile, and loved by both kids and adults. Whether for a casual dessert or a festive treat, they’re sure to impress.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Preparation time: 10–15 minutes
• Cooking time: 25–30 minutes
• Total time: 35–45 minutes

Servings and Nutritional Info

• Servings: 12 brownies
• Calories per serving: Approximately 250–300 kcal
• Course: Dessert / Snack
• Cuisine: American / Baked Goods

Ingredients

• 1 cup ripe bananas (2–3 medium), mashed
• 1/2 cup peanut butter (creamy or chunky)
• 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1/2 cup brown sugar (or coconut sugar)
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (or whole wheat flour)
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• Optional: 1/4 cup chocolate chips or chopped nuts

Cooking Directions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8×8-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, mash the bananas until smooth. Stir in the peanut butter and vanilla extract until well combined.
3. Add eggs and brown sugar, mixing thoroughly until smooth and creamy.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together cocoa powder, flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the banana-peanut butter mixture until just combined.
5. Fold in chocolate chips or chopped nuts if using.
6. Pour batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly.
7. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out mostly clean (slightly fudgy is ideal).
8. Allow brownies to cool completely in the pan before cutting into squares.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

1. Preheat and prep pan: 350°F, grease or line an 8×8-inch pan.
2. Mash bananas: In a bowl, mash until smooth.
3. Mix wet ingredients: Add peanut butter, vanilla, eggs, and brown sugar; stir until smooth.
4. Combine dry ingredients: Whisk cocoa powder, flour, baking powder, and salt in another bowl.
5. Fold dry into wet: Mix until just combined.
6. Add extras: Fold in chocolate chips or nuts.
7. Bake: Spread batter in pan, bake 25–30 minutes.
8. Cool and cut: Allow to cool before slicing into 12 squares.

How to Serve

Serve Peanut Butter Banana Brownies at room temperature, optionally with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of melted chocolate. They also pair wonderfully with coffee, tea, or a glass of milk for a comforting treat.

Recipe Tips

• Use very ripe bananas for maximum sweetness and moisture.
• Don’t overmix batter once dry ingredients are added to keep brownies tender.
• Line the pan with parchment paper for easy removal and clean edges.
• Adjust sweetness to taste; reduce sugar if using very ripe bananas.
• For extra gooeyness, underbake slightly and let them set while cooling.

Variations

• Chocolate Swirl: Add a few tablespoons of peanut butter on top of the batter and swirl with a knife before baking.
• Nutty Delight: Mix in chopped walnuts, pecans, or almonds for extra texture.
• Vegan Option: Use flax eggs (2 tablespoons flaxseed + 6 tablespoons water) instead of eggs.
• Gluten-Free: Substitute flour with almond flour or a gluten-free flour blend.
• Tropical Twist: Add shredded coconut or a few mashed dates for extra sweetness.

Freezing and Storage

• Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days.
• Freezing: Wrap brownies tightly in plastic wrap and foil; freeze up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
• Reheating: Warm in the oven at 300°F for 5–7 minutes or microwave for 15–20 seconds per brownie for a soft, gooey texture.

Special Equipment Needed

• 8×8-inch baking pan
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk or spoon
• Fork or potato masher for bananas
• Knife for cutting brownies

FAQ

Q: Can I use peanut butter alternatives?
A: Yes, almond butter or cashew butter works well.

Q: Can I make these without eggs?
A: Use a flax or chia egg substitute to make them egg-free.

Q: Can I add chocolate chips?
A: Yes, fold in 1/4–1/2 cup chocolate chips for extra chocolatey goodness.

Q: Can I make them ahead of time?
A: Yes, bake and store in an airtight container; they taste even better after a day as flavors meld.

Q: Can I make mini brownies?
A: Yes, bake in a muffin tin for mini brownie bites; reduce baking time to 15–18 minutes.

Conclusion

Peanut Butter Banana Brownies are a moist, fudgy, and indulgent treat that combines the best of chocolate, peanut butter, and banana. Easy to make, versatile, and loved by both kids and adults, these brownies are perfect for dessert, snacks, or a sweet addition to any gathering.

With their rich flavor, soft texture, and endless variations, they’re a must-try for anyone who loves decadent baked goods.